The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party and several smaller political parties are disputing aspects of the eThekwini municipal election results, citing alleged irregularities in the Independent Electoral Commission's (IEC) vote-counting and verification processes.
The parties claim that shortcomings during the counting process may have resulted in votes being incorrectly recorded or lost.
Sumaya Pillay of the eThekwini Ratepayers Political Movement alleges that party representatives were not given a clear view of the counting process at several voting stations.
She claims ballot papers were not individually displayed to party agents before being sorted into piles according to political parties.
Pillay further alleges that counting tables were positioned too far from party representatives, making it difficult for them to observe how ballot papers had been marked.
She said several smaller parties, including the MK Party, had lodged objections in terms of Section 65 of the Electoral Act, raising concerns about the counting process.
However, Pillay claims they have yet to receive feedback from the IEC.
The affected parties are calling on the Commission to investigate the alleged irregularities and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Pillay said even a small number of votes could significantly affect smaller parties competing for seats in council.
She added that the allegations had undermined their confidence in the IEC and its electoral processes.
Pillay claims that more than 400 objections have been lodged and is urging the Commission to take the complaints seriously.